Chen Ruifeng, the Chinese Minister of National Religious and Cultural Affairs Administration, visited Lumbini today, the revered birthplace of Buddha.
The Chinese delegation, including Minister Ruifeng, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Lharkyal Lama, Vice President of the Lumbini Development Trust. Minister Ruifeng expressed his hope that the visit would pave the way for future collaboration between Lumbini and various Chinese sites, aiming for the holistic development of Buddha’s birthplace and the exchange of ideas between the two regions.
During their visit, Minister Ruifeng and his team explored key sites such as the Mayadevi Temple, Ashok Pillar, Pushkarani Pond, and Shanti Deep. They gathered detailed information about these significant locations.
Dr. Lama, during the tour, emphasized the need for regular flights from China to the ready-for-operation Gautam Buddha International Airport. “Regular flights would not only promote tourism in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha but also facilitate the global dissemination of Buddha’s message,” he stated.
In a related event, a team led by Thakur Kumar Shrestha, President of the Rupandehi Chamber of Commerce, submitted a memorandum to the Chinese Minister. The memorandum highlighted the importance of commencing operations at the Gautam Buddha International Airport to boost tourism and economic development in the region.
This visit marks a significant step towards enhancing cultural and tourism ties between Nepal and China, promising mutual benefits for both countries.
